Various conservatory roofs and roof finishes

A conservatory can be a serious investment, especially if the idea is to construct it for year-round use. Most conservatories in Farnham that are designed for all year use specify glass for the roofing material, and they are equipped with heating and the appropriate ventilation.

When glass is used for the conservatory roof, the supporting structure has to be sufficiently strong to carry the weight. This is especially true if the roof is to be double or triple glazed. Although a polycarbonate roof material can be used, it can quickly discolour and it is particularly annoying during rain due to the noise.

Glass roofs:

Glass is the ideal roof for conservatories in Farnham. Glass has been used for years and if cared for properly will never give problems. There are glass types available, which have excellent thermal characteristics, some are treated with a reflective material, and some are self-cleaning.

Polycarbonate roofs:

Polycarbonate is a very light and extremely strong form of plastic. It is available in a range of thickness, colours and textures. The thicker the polycarbonate, the higher the U-Value, you should never use the material when the thickness is less than 16mm, the best is 25 or 35mm. If the material is too thin, your conservatory will be very hot in the summer and freezing in the winter. The thicker the material, the more it deadens the noise when it is raining hard.

Tiled roofs:

A conservatory that has a tiled roof often blends better to the existing home. If the conservatory is facing north, a tiled roof can also add considerable warmth to the room because of its insulating qualities, conversely, if your conservatory faces south, it will be cooler. A tiled roof is often used if it is possible for someone to look in through the roof.

Lead roofs:

A flat roof with a lead finish is often used in orangery’s, rarely in conservatories in Farnham. There are times when a flat roof is a necessity such as when the conservatory is located directly below an upper window. Building regulations specify that upper windows must be reachable with a ladder which can be used in the event of an emergency situation.

If you do not want to use lead, often zinc or copper is used in its place. They mellow to a wonderful patina which will not be an eyesore from upper rooms. As any metal is costly, most people elect to use a built-up roof using synthetic materials.

Finials and crestings:

These are the final touches to your conservatory roof. The finial is the feature found at the front of the roof apex, and the cresting is that which runs along the ridge of the roof.